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And the word of the day is …

Sharing is caring, at least that’s what I was always told. With that in mind, I am initiating an every-so-often installment of words that are good to know as an architect in training: The Architect’s Companion “Word of the Day”.

Using these words in casual or professional conversation will be sure to impress the most apathetic of crowds. Thick-rimmed eyeglasses are optional, but will only help your cause.

Today’s word of the day can instill fear into the hearts of even the noblest of architecture graduate students […no it can’t]. It can make even a grown architect cry at the mention of its name […not really]. Of course, the word I am referring to is the sub-contractor’s favorite tool: the screed. According to Wikipedia, a screed is defined as follows:

A flat board, or a purpose-made aluminum tool, used to smooth concrete after is has been placed on a flat surface; also used to assist in leveling the application of plaster.

I mean, who doesn’t love a nice, smoothly finished concrete surface? I know I do. The process of “screeding” helps in achieving the truest level surface possible by removing the top layer of overly saturated concrete following a pour. This is a pretty crucial step in the construction process, and one to be aware of as an upcoming architectural designer.

If you didn’t know, now you know.

Happy designing.

*image courtesy of BSfinhull’s photostream on Flickr, used under the creative commons license.